Deputy Head of HR

Location: Physics Central, Department of Physics, Clarendon Laboratory Building, Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3PU 

About the role

The Department of Physics is looking for an experienced and proactive Deputy Head of HR to join its dynamic and supportive HR team as a fixed term secondment. Working closely with the Head of HR, you will help deliver a professional, effective and customer-focused HR service across the Department, providing expert advice to managers and staff throughout the employee lifecycle. 

This secondment offers an excellent development opportunity for an HR professional looking to broaden their experience and take the next step towards a more senior HR role. You will gain valuable exposure to departmental HR leadership and HR project initiatives, while developing your experience of managing complex people matters and supporting a busy HR function.

About you

We are looking for an experienced HR professional with strong knowledge of UK employment law and immigration requirements, excellent communication and influencing skills, and the ability to build effective relationships with a wide range of stakeholders. 

You will have a CIPD qualification at graduate level, be working towards this, or have equivalent experience, together with a degree or equivalent. You will have proven experience of managing and developing employees, delivering effective and customer-focused HR processes, handling complex employee relations matters and using HR information systems and management information. 

You will be confident providing advice to managers, assessing risk and applying University policy and employment legislation. Strong numerical skills, attention to detail and effective line management experience are also essential. Experience within the University of Oxford or another higher education institution, and experience of delivering HR briefings or training, would be advantageous. 

The University offers an inclusive and supportive working environment, alongside 38 days’ paid holiday, generous pension schemes, flexible working options, sustainable travel support and extensive professional development opportunities. The Department also holds a Gold Athena Swan award, recognising its commitment to equality and inclusion.

How to apply

To apply, please submit a CV and supporting statement (via the 'Apply' button above) demonstrating how your skills and experience meet the selection criteria.

For informal enquiries, please contact Emma Smith  emma.smith@physics.ox.ac.uk or  recruitment@physics.ox.ac.uk 

Closing date: midday 29 October 2026. Interviews will be held on: 5 November 2026.

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